Authorities order block on social media in Indian-controlled Kashmir

'Authorities in Indian-controlled Kashmir have ordered internet service providers to block popular social media services as New Delhi forces intensify a crackdown across the Muslim-majority Himalayan region.

Local authorities said in a statement on Wednesday that the services should be blocked for one month or until further notice "in the interest of maintenance of public order."

The statement added that the services were "being misused by anti-national and anti-social elements."

Authorities say pro-independence groups are using social media sites to rally support.

Sources say several social networking websites including Facebook, Twitter and WhatsApp had been blocked across the disputed valley.'